It happens one day, without warning. You attempt to read a price tag, a prescription medication label, or the menu at your favorite restaurant and you can no longer make out the text. the condition, called presbyopia, is an age-related eye disorder in which the lens hardens and
diminishes near vision. While this condition is a nuisance, it’s
not a health threat. still, with advancing age, you are at risk for a
number of eye disorders that, left untreated, can lead to debilitating vision loss. so if you’re no longer a spring chicken, should
you schedule an appointment with the ophthalmologist?

according to Dr. Kathryn najafi-tagol, medical director ofthe san Rafael–based eye Institute of Marin, when you hit 40,it’s a good idea to get an eye exam. “If everything checks outokay, you probably don’t need to go again for a couple of years,”

she says. “then around age 50, you’ll want to come in for a comprehensive eye exam.” What will your doctor be screening you
for? Glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration are three of
the most common age-related eye conditions. “all are treatable
when caught early,” says najafi. “Glaucoma is of particular concern because vision disturbances often aren’t noticeable until
damage to the optic nerve is permanent.”

as for that pesky presbyopia, it’s not reversible. But a good pair
of reading glasses will get you back in the game. “It’s important,
however, to have your eyes examined so that you can get the right
prescription,” says najafi. “ Wearing the wrong prescription can
cause headaches and eyestrain.” If you’re too vain to wear specs
or simply don’t like the feel of frames on your face, multifocal
contact lenses are an option. D.M.D.